A Dartford paper mill could close as early as April next year if its owners cannot find a way to save the business.

Owners Arjowiggins has announced it has started a three-month consultation to lay off the 127 people employed at its Priory Road mill, due to the economic downturn and the decline in the European market.

If the closure goes ahead, it plans to concentrate its activities in Belgium.

Mill manager Frédéric Lang said: “As a consequence of the worsening of market conditions, we will be entering a period of uncertainty for our staff, their families and our local sub-contractors, and we must stress what a difficult decision this was to make.

"We recognise the loyalty and dedication of our employees who have performed to their highest ability, even during the recent downturn in business.”

The announcement comes just a week after drug manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline announced proposals to shut its Dartford factory over the next four years.